West Thompson Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Featuring a myriad of natural resources and recreational activities, West Thompson Lake is a superb RV friendly vacation destination. Located in Thompson, Connecticut near the Rhode Island and Massachusetts border, West Thompson Lake is a 200-acre lake accompanied by 1,857 acres of land that is managed by park rangers. The lake was constructed in 1965 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers after they dammed the Quinebaug River for flood control and seasonal stormwater management. The lake has a total storage capacity of 342 million gallons of floodwater, and it is one of the six flood control structures built on the Quinebaug River.
West Thompson Lake is one of the best locations for RV lovers renting or traveling in their own rig in north-eastern Connecticut thanks to a wide range of recreational activities that are available. While you can't go swimming on the lake, it is a great boating destination, and the fishing here is also known to be great. Off the waters of the lake, there are multiple trails that you can explore, three picnic shelters, an 18 disc golf course, wildlife viewing, and hunting opportunities.
Along with all of the fun times to be had at West Thompson Lake you can also make the lake your home away from home thanks to the West Thompson Lake Campground. Here you will find 24 campsites that give you a choice of 11 basic sites, 11 premium sites, and two lean-to shelters. The campground is suitable for rigs up to 45 feet long and is open during peak season, which runs from mid-May to mid-September.
RV Rentals in West Thompson Lake
Transportation
Driving
Getting to and from West Thompson Lake is quite easy thanks to the numerous roads that give you direct access to the lake. The most popular way to get to the park is to take West Thompson Road until you reach Reardon Road. From there, you can access the campground road that will take you down to the banks of the lake.
While there are no major cities within close proximity to West Thompson Lake there are many small towns that should contain all of the supplies and amenities that you will need to enjoy your stay. These towns include North Grosvenor Dale (around three miles away), Woodstock (around six miles away), and Pomfret (around six and a half miles away).
All of the roads in and around West Thompson Lake are kept in good condition thanks to constant maintenance from the Army Corps Engineers staff. There is plenty of room for RVs up to 45 feet to move in and out of the park freely without damaging their rig. During the wintertime, the lake does get snow, so if you are thinking of traveling during this season we recommend you check the forecast in advance.
Parking
There is plenty of parking available at West Thompson Lake.
Public Transportation
There are no public transportation options that will take you to West Thompson Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in West Thompson Lake
Campsites in West Thompson Lake
Reservations camping
West Thompson Lake Campground
Whether you are a beginner or seasoned RV traveler, West Thompson Lake Campground will be a great place to stay. Regarded as being one of the best in New England for those looking to get up close and personal with the great outdoors, the campground is known to be very well maintained, quiet and peaceful. It is quite small with only 24 sites to be found, but they will all be very accommodating.
There are 11 basic sites, 11 premium sites (that feature both electrical and water hookups), and two lean-to shelters. All of the sites offer great privacy, are wooded, and have a flat gravel surface. Other amenities include a comfort station with flush toilets and hot showers, children’s play area, basketball court, horseshoe pits, and a dump station. It is also pet-friendly and you should be able to get cell phone reception on all of the major networks within the campground.
Reservations at West Thompson Lake Campground are a must due to the limited amount of sites on offer. The popularity of the campground means that it does fill up regularly, so we urge that you reserve a site prior to beginning your journey.
Seasonal activities in West Thompson Lake
In-Season
Boating
Many visitors to West Thompson Lake love to boat so they come to enjoy getting out on the water. The 200 acres are perfect for boating and a boat ramp is available for you to use near the campground for those seeking easy access to the water. All types of boats are allowed on the lake, including motor boats, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats. There are no boat rentals available at the lake, so if you plan on renting one, make sure that you do so before arriving at the lake.
Disc Golf
One of the unique features of West Thompson Lake is a free disc golf course that you are encouraged to use during your visit. The course contains eight holes under 300 feet, six holes 300 to 400 feet, and four holes over 400 feet and they are known for long drives. The course is recommended for players of all skill levels and ages, but make sure you remember to bring your own discs.
Picnicking
If you love to picnic you will be very pleased to know that there are many picnic tables available for you to use, including three picnic shelters. All of the shelters at the lake have drive-up access, two large charcoal grills, picnic tables and access to a portable toilet. If you do have a large group we recommend you reserve one of the shelters in advance. To check their availability you can contact the Park Office over the phone or by checking out their website.
Off-Season
Fishing
West Thompson Lake is a magnet for those looking to enjoy some peace and quiet trying to catch the big one. The lake and the Quinebaug River are both suitable for fishing and both areas are very popular during the summer months. Common warm water fish species found in the lake include largemouth and smallmouth bass, pickerel, perch, carp, and sunfish. If you do want to go fishing during your visit make sure that you bring your own fishing gear and that you have the relevant fishing license.
Hiking
Hikers rejoice! There are three different trails systems within West Thompson Lake that are great for those wanting to explore the areas around the lake. The trails range in length from just over a mile to around four miles and they are suitable for hikers of all ages and experience levels. If you do decide to go hiking, remember to carry plenty of water with you and a map so you know where you are heading.
Wildlife Viewing
There are plenty of great wildlife viewing areas at West Thompson Lake, especially in the 80 acres of open grassland immediately surrounding the lake. This area is a vital natural resource that is home to many species that are dependent on these areas for food, shelter, and breeding. Common wildlife found in these grasslands includes bobolink, northern leopard frog, small rodents, turkey, eastern meadowlark, black racer, horned lark, pheasants, wood turtles, and numerous birds and insects.
